“If”
If you can live each day with the assurance that YOU are something wonderful to be.
If you can find a way to meet your problems
With courage and with true maturity…If you can be attractive and in fashion,
Yet never swayed by any vulgar style.
If you can choose the finer things life offers,
Rejecting what is worthless with a smile…If you can guard the principles you live by-
Hold fast to truth and honor all life through.
And stand for right in every situation,
No matter what the world may say or do…If you can try to offer hope or comfort,
To those who seem to need a helping hand.If you can do some little act of kindness,
Or say a word that shows you understand…If you can meet a trying situation,
Without complaint and with your spirit high.
If you can face occasional disappointment,
Not yielding to a grumble or a sigh.If you can learn to make a firm decision and say, “I will”-
Never “I may” or “might”
If you can follow in your true vocation
Unswerving, for you know your course is right…If you can take delight in little children.
And be a friend to older folks you know.If you can give your warmth and understanding,
To fill the lives of those who love you so…If you can practice all the arts of living,
With gracious kindness and with real integrity…
You’re bound to be a happy person, always
And the lovely human you were meant to be.
Changed it around, just a bit. For it was once, “If - For Girls”. I found it more universal.
From a small book my Mother was given on her 15th, by her parents. Something I’m glad to tote away with.
